Artists and Cultural Figures Respond to Milo Rau's Call for Resistance

In Vienna, a recent statement issued by a collective of artists and cultural figures addressed a public call made by Milo Rau, the director of the Wiener Festwochen. Rau had encouraged members of the arts and cultural community to engage in active resistance, which he outlined on the official festival website. The group of respondents expressed concerns regarding the focus and implications of Rau's message.

According to their response, Rau's appeal did not center on opposing anti-Jewish boycotts within the artistic sphere, nor did it explicitly denounce antisemitism or anti-Israel sentiment. Instead, his call was interpreted as an urge for the arts to end what he described as 'silence,' particularly concerning current events in the Middle East. The collective noted that Jewish communities in Europe are not experiencing silence but are confronted with frequent public demonstrations that include hostile rhetoric directed at Israel.

The response highlighted that, contrary to Rau's assertions, there is significant vocalization in opposition to Israel, including calls for its destruction in various protests. The group disputed Rau's suggestion that Israeli leadership has advocated for the destruction of the Palestinian people, clarifying that official statements referenced the eradication of Hamas, not the population as a whole. The respondents emphasized that claims of genocide are not substantiated by available evidence and expressed concern about the accuracy of public discourse on the issue.

Furthermore, the artists and cultural professionals expressed unease over comparisons made between criticism of Israel and the historical silence surrounding the Holocaust, viewing such analogies as inappropriate and historically misleading. They suggested that Rau's approach seeks to generate controversy rather than contribute constructively to discussions or the resolution of ongoing conflict.

The group advocated for a more nuanced and differentiated approach to artistic engagement with political topics, especially those as complex as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They called on their peers to avoid one-sided narratives, to resist the marginalization of any individual or artistic expression based on national or religious identity, and to reject boycotts motivated by such factors.

Emphasizing the importance of solidarity, the statement urged the cultural sector to stand against antisemitism and anti-Israel rhetoric, supporting respectful dialogue and peaceful coexistence. The signatories reaffirmed their commitment to fostering critical thought without resorting to simplistic explanations or divisive rhetoric, and they encouraged continued support for peace initiatives, the release of hostages, and efforts that could lead to a ceasefire and improved conditions in the region.

The collective concluded by inviting all individuals involved in art and culture to uphold these principles, underlining the sector's responsibility to promote understanding, reject hate, and encourage reconciliation during times of heightened tension and conflict.